Amit Shah Declares Bastar Naxal-Free; Launches ‘White Revolution’ Plan

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the nation during a major press conference in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, on Tuesday and made a landmark announcement. He stated that Bastar is now completely free from Naxalism and said that residents who had lived under prolonged fear can now live without threat.

Shah introduced the ‘Shaheed Veer Gundadhur Seva Dera’ scheme, marking the beginning of a ‘White Revolution’ in the region. Under this plan, former security camps will be converted into centres for tribal development and dairy production.

Four Dates That Changed Bastar

Explaining the region’s turnaround, Amit Shah highlighted four key dates that shaped Bastar’s journey.

1. On 13 December 2023, a BJP government assumed office in Chhattisgarh under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accelerating anti-Naxal efforts in coordination with the Centre.
2. On 24 August 2024, senior police officials across India resolved to eliminate Naxalism by 31 March 2026.
3. By 31 March 2026, security forces, including CAPF, DRG, and the state police, eliminated Naxalism within the deadline through sustained operations.
4. On 19 May 2026, authorities rolled out a comprehensive development plan for Bastar, marking a defining moment in the region’s history.

Amit Shah countered claims that underdevelopment had caused Naxalism and asserted that insurgency had, in fact, blocked infrastructure growth in remote areas. He stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier established around 200 camps in difficult terrain to combat insurgents.

With the situation now under control, authorities will convert 70 of these camps into ‘Seva Deras’ to promote employment and welfare among tribal communities.

The Home Minister said the initiative will strengthen Bastar’s rural economy by providing each tribal family with one cow and one buffalo free of cost.

Shah further added that authorities will implement a cooperative model inspired by Anand in Gujarat and Amul. This system will procure milk from local producers and market it nationwide, thereby increasing household incomes.

Amit Shah emphasised that the government aims to move young people away from violence and integrate them into education, employment, and mainstream development.

Bastar’s Shift From Conflict to Growth

The Minister noted that areas once affected by landmines and conflict are now witnessing development projects.

Bastar’s transformation into a stable and economically resilient region reflects the success of India’s internal security strategy.

Shah added that Bastar is now set to emerge as a symbol of prosperity and growth, replacing its earlier image of fear with one of opportunity and progress.

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